Al Lopus knew what a healthy succession should look like. Then he started giving away work he loved.

After one leadership meeting, the cofounder of Best Christian Workplaces sat in his office feeling empty and diminished. Keeping a few responsibilities was tempting. He also knew it could undermine the handoff.

Al joins Matt Davis to discuss the gap between knowing how to lead well and accepting what that requires personally. 

They talk about boards that rarely evaluate their CEOs, leaders who share survey strengths while withholding weaknesses, and the trust at stake when someone leaves a team.

Al also describes seeking outside counsel during his succession and using feedback to understand how staff experienced both leaders. 

For boards and founders preparing a handoff, the conversation offers an honest look at the work a transition plan can’t do by itself.